The allure of the coastline is woven into the American spirit. From the rugged cliffs of the Pacific Northwest to the warm, sugar-white sands of the Gulf Coast, the United States offers a diversity of beach experiences that rivals any international destination. Whether you are seeking a surfer’s paradise, a family-friendly boardwalk, or a secluded natural escape, there is a perfect stretch of sand waiting for you. As of late 2025, travel trends indicate a massive resurgence in domestic beach tourism, with travelers prioritizing clean water, accessibility, and scenic beauty.
At Top 10 America, we look beyond the brochure photos. We analyze water quality reports, visitor accessibility, and that indefinable “vibe” that makes a beach town memorable. Our selection criteria for this year’s list focuses on states that offer not just one good beach, but a consistent coastline of high-quality experiences. We weigh the historical prestige of locations like the Hamptons against the rising popularity of hidden gems on the Gulf Coast.
We understand that “best” is subjective—what a surfer loves, a toddler might hate. Therefore, our rankings balance natural beauty with amenity availability. Join us as we explore the states that define American coastal living.
Overview: Top 10 Best Beach States in the USA
| Rank | Location/State | Best For | Top Beach Pick |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Florida | Warm Water & Variety | Siesta Key |
| 2 | Hawaii | Tropical Scenery & Surf | Poipu Beach |
| 3 | California | Iconic Views & Culture | Coronado Beach |
| 4 | South Carolina | Family Vacations | Coligny Beach |
| 5 | North Carolina | Nature & History | Outer Banks (OBX) |
| 6 | Oregon | Rugged Landscapes | Cannon Beach |
| 7 | New York | Luxury & Dunes | Coopers Beach |
| 8 | Alabama | White Sand Value | Gulf Shores |
| 9 | New Jersey | Boardwalk Nostalgia | Cape May |
| 10 | Michigan | Freshwater Beauty | Sleeping Bear Dunes |
Top 10. Michigan
Often overlooked by oceanic purists, Michigan boasts the longest freshwater coastline in the United States. Located in the Great Lakes region, the state offers a unique “unsalted” beach experience that rivals the ocean without the sharks or jellyfish. From the towering dunes of the west coast along Lake Michigan to the rocky shores of Lake Superior, the variety here is astounding.
In Top 10 America’s view, Michigan earns its spot because of the sheer majesty of the Sleeping Bear Dunes and the crystal-clear waters of Torch Lake. We suggest visiting in July or August, as the window for warm swimming weather is shorter than in the south. The absence of salt makes for a refreshing, sticky-free post-swim feeling that many locals cherish.
A fascinating insider detail is the presence of “Petoskey stones”—fossilized coral pebbles found along the northern beaches. Hunting for these prehistoric souvenirs is a beloved pastime for families visiting the state.
Key Highlights
- Shoreline: Over 3,200 miles of freshwater coast.
- Top Spot: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (voted “Most Beautiful Place in America” by GMA).
- Unique Factor: No salt, no sharks, and massive sand dunes.
Top 9. New Jersey
The Jersey Shore is legendary, not just for the reality TV fame, but for its historic and culturally rich 130 miles of Atlantic coastline. Located in New Jersey, this region practically invented the American boardwalk culture. From the Victorian charm of Cape May in the south to the neon lights of Wildwood, the state offers a beach experience that is heavily integrated with entertainment and dining.
We suggest New Jersey for travelers who want action alongside their relaxation. The beaches are wide, well-maintained, and patrolled by world-class lifeguard associations. While beach tags (paid entry) are common here—a point of contention for some—the fees generally ensure pristine sand and clean facilities.
Did you know that Atlantic City built the world’s first boardwalk in 1870? It was originally designed to keep sand out of the fancy hotels, but it evolved into the global icon of seaside entertainment we know today.
Key Highlights
- Shoreline: 130 miles of Atlantic Ocean coast.
- Top Spot: Cape May (America’s oldest seaside resort).
- Unique Factor: The extensive Boardwalk culture and amusement piers.
Top 8. Alabama
A rising star in coastal tourism, Alabama holds a secret that Gulf Coast locals have known for decades: the beaches here are just as white and the water just as warm as Florida, often at a fraction of the price. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, the twin cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer a relaxed, Southern-hospitality-infused beach vacation.
In our perspective, Alabama is the best value destination on this list. We suggest it for families who want the Caribbean-style turquoise waters without the massive crowds of Miami. The sand here is composed of quartz grains washed down from the Appalachian Mountains thousands of years ago, giving it a brilliant white color and a squeaky texture underfoot.
An insider tip for nature lovers is to visit the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. It offers a glimpse of the coastal ecosystem as it existed before development, with pristine dunes and nesting sea turtles.
Key Highlights
- Shoreline: 60 miles of Gulf of Mexico coast.
- Top Spot: Gulf Shores Public Beach.
- Unique Factor: Sugar-white quartz sand and affordable luxury.
Top 7. New York
When one thinks of New York, skyscrapers usually come to mind, but the state is home to some of the most prestigious beaches in the world. Long Island, specifically the Hamptons and Montauk, offers rugged dunes and crashing Atlantic waves that attract the global elite. Further west, Jones Beach and Robert Moses State Park provide massive stretches of public sand accessible to millions.
We suggest New York for travelers who appreciate the “see and be seen” culture of the Hamptons, or the raw, historic beauty of Fire Island. Coopers Beach in Southampton frequently tops “Dr. Beach’s” annual lists due to its wide, white sands and backdrop of historic mansions. It is a place where natural beauty meets high society.
A unique feature of the New York coastline is the Fire Island Lighthouse. If you climb the 182 steps, you can see the Manhattan skyline on a clear day, visually connecting the bustle of the city with the serenity of the sea.
Key Highlights
- Shoreline: Ocean beaches on Long Island and Great Lakes frontage.
- Top Spot: Coopers Beach, Southampton.
- Unique Factor: High-end luxury combined with protected National Seashores.
Top 6. Oregon
For those who prefer dramatic scenery over sunbathing, Oregon is the undisputed champion. Located in the Pacific Northwest, the entire 363-mile coastline is free and open to the public by law, known as the “People’s Coast.” The beaches here are defined by massive haystacks (sea stacks), misty forests meeting the sand, and a wild, untamed energy.
In Top 10 America’s view, Oregon is for the adventurer. We suggest bringing layers, as even in summer, the Pacific breeze can be brisk. It is not a place for swimming without a wetsuit, but it is world-class for tide pooling, storm watching, and photography. Cannon Beach, with its iconic Haystack Rock, is a bucket-list destination.
Insider detail: The film “The Goonies” was filmed along this coast. You can visit Ecola State Park to see the exact vistas that defined the classic 80s movie, offering a nostalgic trip for many visitors.
Key Highlights
- Shoreline: 363 miles of fully public coastline.
- Top Spot: Cannon Beach.
- Unique Factor: Dramatic sea stacks and public access to every inch of sand.
Top 5. North Carolina
North Carolina offers a beach geography unlike anywhere else in the US: the Outer Banks (OBX). This 200-mile string of barrier islands curves out into the Atlantic, creating a graveyard for ships and a paradise for beachgoers. The state balances developed resort towns like Wrightsville Beach with the wild, remote beauty of Cape Hatteras.
We suggest North Carolina for history buffs and nature enthusiasts. The Cape Hatteras National Seashore was the first of its kind in the US, preserving the landscape in its natural state. This is also one of the few places where you can watch the sun rise and set over the water from the same island due to the unique geography.
A truly American highlight here is the wild horses of Corolla. Descendants of Spanish mustangs from the 1500s, these horses still roam freely on the northern beaches, offering a surreal and majestic sight for visitors.
Key Highlights
- Shoreline: Over 300 miles of barrier island beaches.
- Top Spot: Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
- Unique Factor: The Outer Banks barrier islands and wild horses.
Top 4. South Carolina
From the bustling energy of the Grand Strand to the quiet luxury of Kiawah Island, South Carolina knows how to do beaches. Myrtle Beach is a household name, attracting millions of families with its affordable resorts and endless amusements. However, the state also boasts Hilton Head Island, which offers a more refined, eco-conscious beach experience.
We view South Carolina as the ultimate family playground. We suggest Hilton Head for those seeking bike trails and golf courses alongside the ocean, while Myrtle Beach is unmatched for entertainment value. The water is warm from late spring through October, making for a long, enjoyable swimming season.
Insider detail: South Carolina beaches are famous for their hard-packed sand at low tide, specifically on Hilton Head. This makes them arguably the best beaches in the country for biking directly on the sand—a favorite local pastime.
Key Highlights
- Shoreline: 187 miles of Atlantic coast.
- Top Spot: Coligny Beach, Hilton Head.
- Unique Factor: Bikeable beaches and world-class golf resorts.
Top 3. California
The golden standard of American beach culture, California offers an incredible range of coastal environments. From the foggy, rugged cliffs of Big Sur in the north to the sun-drenched, palm-lined shores of San Diego in the south, the state is an icon. Whether it’s the surf culture of Huntington Beach or the Hollywood glamour of Malibu, California beaches are a lifestyle.
In our perspective, California ranks high because of its cultural impact and scenic diversity. We suggest visiting in September or October to avoid the “June Gloom” marine layer that often covers the coast in early summer. Coronado Beach in San Diego is a standout, with its glistening mica-infused sand and the historic Hotel del Coronado.
A fun fact: Venice Beach is the second most-visited destination in Southern California after Disneyland. Its oceanfront boardwalk is a living theater of artists, bodybuilders, and skaters that you simply cannot find anywhere else.
Key Highlights
- Shoreline: 840 miles of Pacific coast.
- Top Spot: Coronado Central Beach, San Diego.
- Unique Factor: The birthplace of modern surf culture and iconic Highway 1.
Top 2. Hawaii
If we were ranking purely on natural perfection, Hawaii might stand alone. This archipelago in the middle of the Pacific offers beaches of white, black, green, and red sand. The water is crystal clear, warm year-round, and teeming with tropical marine life. From the famous Waikiki on Oahu to the remote shores of Kauai, Hawaii is the dream destination.
We suggest Hawaii for those willing to make the journey for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The snorkeling here is superior to any mainland state. While it is expensive and requires a long flight, the “Aloha Spirit” and the stunning volcanic backdrops make it worth every penny.
Insider detail: All beaches in Hawaii are public (with very minor military exceptions). This means you can lay your towel on the sand in front of the most exclusive luxury resort in Maui, and you have just as much right to be there as the guests paying $2,000 a night.
Key Highlights
- Shoreline: 750 miles of tropical island coast.
- Top Spot: Poipu Beach, Kauai.
- Unique Factor: Tropical climate, volcanic sand varieties, and year-round warm water.
Top 1. Florida
Taking the top spot is the Sunshine State, Florida. It is the only state on our list with extensive coastlines on both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, offering two distinct beach experiences. Florida wins for sheer volume, accessibility, and water temperature. Whether it’s the party vibe of South Beach, the family-friendly calm of Clearwater, or the snorkeling in the Keys, Florida has it all.
Top 10 America ranks Florida number one because it is the most reliable beach destination in the continental US. We suggest the Gulf Coast (Siesta Key, Destin) for the best sand quality—pure, cool quartz—and the Atlantic side for better waves. The state’s commitment to maintaining its beaches, despite heavy tourism, keeps it at the pinnacle of American travel.
A staggering fact: No matter where you are in Florida, you are never more than 60 miles from the nearest body of salt water. The ocean is not just a destination here; it is a way of life.
Key Highlights
- Shoreline: 1,350 miles of coastline (2nd longest in US).
- Top Spot: Siesta Key (often ranked #1 in the USA).
- Unique Factor: Warmest water in the continental US and dual-coast variety.
Conclusion
From the freshwater marvels of Michigan to the tropical allure of Florida, the United States offers a coastline for every type of traveler. The “best” beach is ultimately the one that brings you the most peace, whether that is found in the crash of a Pacific wave or the gentle lapping of the Gulf. Top 10 America encourages you to explore these states and find your own personal paradise.
